Shawnee High School senior Kiley Sartin has been recognized among the state and nation’s top academic achievers, earning distinction as a 2026 Oklahoma Academic All-Stater and a 2026 National Merit Finalist.
Selected as one of only 100 Academic All-State scholars statewide, Sartin represents the highest level of academic excellence in Oklahoma public schools. The honor is awarded through the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, which this year marks its 40th Academic All-State class.
Sartin also advanced to National Merit Finalist status after months of anticipation following her semifinalist designation. “After submitting my application in October, I spent four months waiting,” Sartin said. “When I finally got the letter in February, I was filled with relief and excitement because all of my hard work had paid off.”
For Sartin, the recognitions reflect years of intentional effort and high standards. “These awards are tangible proof that holding myself to the highest academic expectations was worth it,” she shared.
One of the most memorable moments came with the arrival of the Academic All-State award package, often called “The Big Box.” “Unlike National Merit, which is heavily based on test scores, there was no guarantee,” Sartin explained. “In some ways, the disappointment of falling short in the final round of All-State band auditions made this recognition even sweeter.”
At Shawnee High School, Sartin has balanced a rigorous academic schedule with her involvement in extracurricular activities. “Academics are my top priority, but band and swim help me reset and stay present,” she said. She is active in band and swim, serves as Band President and Head Drum Major, and credits those experiences with helping her stay grounded and energized.
Sartin is known for making the most of every opportunity, taking advanced, AP, and concurrent courses, spending free time reading, and participating in summer academic camps and legislative paging at the Capitol. She also credits her counselors at Shawnee High School for helping her craft a challenging schedule while still allowing her to pursue electives.
Looking ahead, Sartin plans to attend Oklahoma State University and major in chemical engineering. She will participate in OSU’s CEAT Scholar and Freshman Research programs, with long-term plans to earn both an MD and PhD. Her ultimate goal is to conduct cancer research that explores how microgravity can improve medical treatments. “My ultimate goal is to push the limits of medical research,” Sartin said. “I hope to combine math, science, space, and medicine to find ways to make medicine more effective.”
“Being a National Merit Finalist significantly increased my scholarship opportunities,” Sartin said. “OSU’s package will allow me to graduate with no debt, which opens so many doors for my future.”
Sartin hopes her achievements inspire younger Wolves, “I didn’t know anyone with these honors when I was an underclassman,” she said. “I want students to see that if you work hard and dream big, these opportunities are possible.”
As part of the 2026 Academic All-State class, Sartin will receive a $1,500 merit-based award, honor cord, and medallion. She will be formally recognized during the 40th annual Academic Awards Celebration on May 2 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.